Alexander Isak’s desired move to Liverpool could develop once Newcastle sign one of their two required strikers, with a deal likely at lower than £150 million.
With Isak digging his heels in over a departure from St James’ Park this summer, Newcastle‘s position on the Swede’s future has weakened.
However the situation remains reliant on at least one new striker joining Eddie Howe’s squad before any move is sanctioned for their No. 14.
There has long been confusing messaging around Isak’s future, with Newcastle sources insisting he is not for sale – but also that, if he is, it would take a fee in the region of £150 million.
But the Times‘ Martin Hardy and Paul Joyce have provided an update this week, suggesting that a package worth £130 million could be enough to reach an agreement.
That would be inclusive of add-ons, with Liverpool’s only official bid for Isak so far being a flat sum of £110 million.
In theory the champions could potentially increase that offer with up to £20 million in achievable add-ons in order to satisfy the demands from Tyneside.
There are however “considerable doubts” over whether Liverpool would be willing to go as high as £130 million, particularly given there is a clear commitment from Isak.
If such a deal can brokered, though, Newcastle could then find themselves in a much stronger position to strengthen both this summer and, if needed, in the January transfer window.
It is explained that at least one of the two strikers they need must be signed before any move for Isak is permitted, and The Athletic‘s David Ornstein has now reported that Jorgen Strand Larsen has informed Wolves of his desire to join.
Wolves are however insistent Larsen is not for sale, though head coach Vitor Pereira admitted earlier this week that “every player has his price” and there are suggestions a third bid of upwards of £60 million would be enough.
Brentford‘s Yoane Wissa is another known target but no agreement has been possible yet following two bids – with the London club also seeking as much as £60 million.
Clearly the situation must move quickly in order for Isak to secure his switch to Anfield, with the transfer deadline set for 7pm on Monday evening.
But there is a sense that, once the pieces start to fall into place, Newcastle will be more agreeable than they were when they received that £110 million bid on August 1.